A new generation of sustainability champions have raised their hands in Newcastle, thanks to a Council-run art competition designed to promote resource recovery.
Newcastle Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes said with National Recycling Week kicking off this week, there was no better time to encourage conversations around the need to repair, recycle and reuse resources.
“Reducing the amount of waste going to landfill and creating a net zero emissions city will take collective action from all members of the community, young and old,” she said.
“To decrease our impact on the planet, and get more value from limited resources, we need to shift to a circular economy where we return, reuse, repair and recycle to create minimal waste, save water and energy and keep those materials circulating for even longer.
“This school-based art competition was a fantastic way to engage the next generation in these important conversations while also encouraging broader community-wide feedback on Our Sustainable Waste Strategy, which sets out City of Newcastle’s vision for resource recovery in Newcastle for the next 20 years.”
Sofia Puerto, 11, and Betsy Smith, 13 impressed the judges with their colourful entries and thoughtful explanations of the artworks, which will now adorn two waste collection trucks and around 70 public bins across the city.
As the primary and secondary school winners of the competition, the girls will receive an iPad Mini and Apple Pencil each for their creative efforts, while Our Lady of Victories, Shortland was selected as the winner of the Go Circular workshop, which will help teachers learn how to become more sustainable in a school setting.
“It’s wonderful to have students like Sofia, Betsy and everyone who entered our Close the Loop art competition putting so much thought and effort into such an important topic,” said Lord Mayor Nelmes.
